The Georgian City · Somerset

Airport

Bath to Bristol

The train is the clear winner for most people, but driving or taking the coach may be better for you depending on your circumstances

The train from Bath Spa to Bristol Temple Meads is the fastest way to make the journey, taking around 15-20 minutes. The train wins so decisively on this route that driving only makes sense for luggage or an onward airport leg; the coach is cheaper but the time penalty is larger than the saving for most people.

comparing your options

If you're planning to travel from Bath to Bristol, you have three main options: train, bus or car. Here's a comparison of the three:

OptionCostTime
Trainvaries15-20 minutes
Busfrom about £530-40 minutes
Carvaries30-40 minutes depending on traffic

As you can see, the train is the fastest option, but it may not always be the cheapest. The bus is a good option if you're on a budget, but it takes longer. Driving is a good option if you have a lot of luggage or want to make an onward journey, but it can be affected by traffic.

why the train is usually the best option

The train is usually the best option for several reasons. Firstly, it's the fastest way to make the journey, which is important if you're short on time. Secondly, it's often more convenient than driving, as you don't have to worry about parking or traffic. Finally, it's a more environmentally friendly option, as trains produce less carbon emissions per passenger than cars. If you're planning a day trip to Bristol, you may want to consider using the park and ride service, as described in our guide to Parking in Bath. You could also use the train to get to Bristol and then take a bus or taxi to your destination. For more information on things to do in Bristol, see our guide to Bath in one weekend, which includes a section on day trips from Bath. WeKnowBath is published by the Tick Taxi group, which offers airport transfers, including from Bath to Bristol Airport. If you're planning to fly from Bristol Airport, you may want to consider using a taxi or private transfer service, as described in our guide.

FAQs

What is the fastest way to get from Bath to Bristol?

The train is the fastest way to get from Bath to Bristol, taking around 15-20 minutes.

What is the cheapest way to get from Bath to Bristol?

The bus is the cheapest way to get from Bath to Bristol, with prices starting from around £5.

Is it better to drive or take the train from Bath to Bristol?

The train is usually the best option, as it's faster and more convenient than driving. However, driving may be better if you have a lot of luggage or want to make an onward journey.

Can I use the park and ride service to get to Bristol?

Yes, you can use the park and ride service to get to Bristol. Simply park your car at one of the park and ride car parks and take the bus to the city centre.

How do I get to Bristol Airport from Bath?

You can get to Bristol Airport from Bath by taking the Air Decker bus, which runs direct from Bath to the airport. Alternatively, you can take a taxi or private transfer service, as described in our guide to Bath to Bristol Airport.

Questions people ask

What is the fastest way to get from Bath to Bristol?

The train is the fastest way to get from Bath to Bristol, taking around 15-20 minutes.

What is the cheapest way to get from Bath to Bristol?

The bus is the cheapest way to get from Bath to Bristol, with prices starting from around £5.

Is it better to drive or take the train from Bath to Bristol?

The train is usually the best option, as it's faster and more convenient than driving. However, driving may be better if you have a lot of luggage or want to make an onward journey.

Can I use the park and ride service to get to Bristol?

Yes, you can use the park and ride service to get to Bristol. Simply park your car at one of the park and ride car parks and take the bus to the city centre.

How do I get to Bristol Airport from Bath?

You can get to Bristol Airport from Bath by taking the Air Decker bus, which runs direct from Bath to the airport. Alternatively, you can take a taxi or private transfer service, as described in our guide to [Bath to Bristol Airport](/guides/bath-to-bristol-airport).

Prices and times checked August 2026.

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